Spring is just around the corner, bringing changes to the weather. Stay safe on the roads by preparing and adapting the seasons!
You can’t control the weather, the other drivers on the road, or the road conditions. You can control your driving habits, prepare for the seasonal changes, and maintain your own car.
Look for Animals
When they wake up from their winter naps and become more active in the spring, all kinds of animals are more likely to be on the roads at all times of the day or night. Keep an eye out for anything from deer to skunks, especially at dawn and dusk when it’s more difficult to see.
Check your Allergies
Do the seasonal changes irritate your sinuses? Protect yourself with medication if you need it. Reaching for a tissue while you’re behind the wheel is distracted driving too!
Be mindful of medications that may cause drowsiness behind the wheel.
Be Mindful of Potholes
Changing temperatures are a major cause of potholes, and many don’t appear until spring. Whether you’re on unfamiliar roads or not, leave enough distance in front of you while driving to avoid potholes and slow down.
Remember that rain and large puddles can hide potholes, so puddles can be dangerous too!
Watch for Motorcycles and Bicycles
As the weather warms up, more people are out on two-wheeled vehicles. Leave cyclists plenty of room when you pass them, and remember, they’re avoiding potholes and puddles too!
Look at the Weather Forecast
Warmer weather brings new weather patterns, like high winds, rain, hail, and thunderstorms, all of which can affect your car, safe driving, and visibility – and that applies to the other cars on the road too. If a storm is headed your way, don’t go out unless you need to. If you’re already out, tune into the news or weather on the radio.
Watch for hail damage to your windshield and be careful on wet, slippery roads, and always leave enough room to slow down around an accident or car on the side of the road.
Maintain your Vehicle
Changes in temperature, precipitation, road conditions, and general wear and tear only mean that your car needs to be in tip-top shape to keep you as safe as possible. Check your tire pressure and alignment, especially after hitting a pothole, and make sure your windshield wiper blades are in good condition.
